The Ultimate Guide to Professional Area Rug Cleaning

IQnewswire Friday, September 8, 2023 Content Leave a comment

If you have area rugs in your home, you know how quickly they can get dirty. From food spills to pet accidents, dirt and debris can accumulate deep in the fibers of your rugs. Regular vacuuming helps, but to really get them clean, professional area rug cleaning is a must.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about professional area rug cleaning – from when you should have them cleaned to how to choose the right rug cleaning company. We’ll also provide tips for DIY cleaning between professional cleanings.

When to Professionally Clean Your Area Rugs

The general recommendation is to have area rugs professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months. However, the ideal cleaning frequency depends on factors like:

Amount of foot traffic – Rugs in high traffic areas may need cleaning more often.
Pets – Homes with pets, especially dogs and cats, should clean rugs more frequently to remove dander, hair and odors.
Location – Rugs near entryways attract more dirt and require more frequent cleaning.
Spills/stains – Significant spills or stains should be professionally cleaned right away before setting.

Watch for signs your rugs need cleaning, like visible dirt, matting, color fading or musty odors. If vacuuming no longer restores their appearance, it’s definitely time for a professional cleaning.

Choosing an Area Rug Cleaning Company

Not all rug cleaning companies offer the same level of service and quality. Here’s what to look for when choosing a pro:

Experience

Choose an established company that specializes in area rug cleaning. They should have extensive experience cleaning all types of rugs. Ask how long they’ve been in business.

Cleaning Methods

The best rug cleaners offer options like hot water extraction, dry cleaning, and steam cleaning. Hot water extraction is especially effective for deep cleaning. Avoid companies that just offer surface cleaning.

Reputation

Read online reviews and check ratings with the Better Business Bureau. Reputable cleaners should have mostly positive feedback. You can also ask for references from past customers.

Guarantee

Professional rug cleaners should guarantee their services in writing. This ensures they stand behind their work if you’re not fully satisfied.

Handling

Choose a company that uses gentle rug handling methods. They should pad and protect your rugs when transporting to avoid damage. Ask about their cleaning facility – climate-controlled environments are ideal.

Pricing

Professional rug cleaning ranges from $.25 to $.50 per square foot. Bigger and high-quality rugs tend to be more expensive. Get an upfront written estimate – beware very lowball prices.

Certifications

Look for companies certified by organizations like the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification). This indicates proper technician training.

The Area Rug Cleaning Process

Professional rug cleaners use specialized techniques and commercial-grade equipment to deep clean your rugs. Here is what you can expect during the cleaning process:

Inspection – The technician will thoroughly inspect your rugs first, checking for stains, wear patterns, fringe damage, etc. This determines the best cleaning method.
Pre-treating – Heavily soiled areas may be pre-treated to loosen dirt before washing. Enzyme cleaners help remove pet stains and odors.
Washing – Your rugs are gently washed using hot water extraction, advanced steam cleaning or dry cleaning solvents based on fiber type.
Rinsing – Rugs are thoroughly rinsed after washing to remove all detergent residues and remaining dirt.
Drying – Companies use commercial drying systems that force air through the rug fibers, drying them quickly to prevent mold and mildew.
Finishing – Once dry, the backsides of your rugs are vacuumed. Fringes are repaired and straightened.
Return – Finally, your newly cleaned rugs are carefully returned and placed back in your home.

Reputable cleaners inspect and check the results once back in your home. Your rugs should look refreshed!

DIY Cleaning Tips Between Professional Cleanings

To extend the time between professional cleanings, try these DIY cleaning tips:

Vacuum frequently – Vacuum at least once a week to remove surface dirt and debris from rug fibers. Use a vacuum with adjustable height for all pile levels.
Spot clean spills ASAP – Blot liquid spills immediately with a clean, white cloth. For solids, gently scrape up and vacuum. Use a small amount of mild detergent if needed.
Address pet stains – Mix equal parts water and white vinegar and spray over pet urine stains. Blot dry and vacuum. Repeat as needed. Use an enzyme cleaner for tough set-in odors.
Flip occasionally – Occasionally flip your rug over to evenly distribute wear and extend its life. This prevents matting in heavy traffic areas.
Rotate rugs – If possible, rotate the placement of your rugs between cleanings. This gives the most worn areas a break.

Regular vacuuming and immediate spot cleaning will help keep your area rugs looking great between professional cleanings. Follow our guide to choose the best rug cleaning service. With proper care, your rugs can last for years to come!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is professional cleaning better than renting a carpet cleaner?

Professional rug cleaners use powerful truck-mounted equipment that generates 200-300 psi of water pressure and 200°F heated water. Home carpet cleaners cannot match this level of suction and agitation needed to thoroughly clean rug fibers. Professionals also have access to strong cleaning agents and can completely rinse away residues.

What is hot water extraction?

Hot water extraction, also called steam cleaning, is the #1 recommended method by rug manufacturers. The rug is preconditioned with a cleaning solution, then hot water and detergent are blasted into the fibers at high pressure. This flushes out dirt, bacteria and allergens. The rug is thoroughly rinsed to complete the process.

How long does it take for my rug to dry after cleaning?

With professional cleaning, area rugs usually dry within 12-24 hours. Companies use high-powered fans and air movers to speed drying time. Rugs are not saturated with water. Certain natural fiber rugs like wool may take longer to fully dry. The cleaner should never leave your damp rug in place.

Should I clean my rug before moving?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to have your rugs professionally cleaned before relocating them. This removes embedded dirt that can lead to accelerated wear in the new location. Cleaning also eliminates odors, allergens and pests from being transferred.

What about DIY cleaning solutions or rental machines?

Home remedies like vinegar and baking soda do not effectively clean rugs. Rental carpet cleaners also lack the power to thoroughly clean. Harsh grocery store detergents can leave sticky residues. For best results, always rely on professional rug cleaners and their commercial-grade equipment.

How often should I rotate/flip my rugs?

For rugs in high foot traffic areas, flipping or rotating them every 3-6 months helps distribute wear more evenly. This prevents heavy matting and crushing in just one section. But even occasional rotating when cleaning or rearranging furniture is helpful.

Should I have antique or delicate rugs professionally cleaned?

Yes, you can safely have even antique, handmade or delicate rugs professionally cleaned. Reputable cleaners are highly trained and experienced in properly handling and cleaning fragile rugs. Avoid DIY cleaning which can potentially cause damage or color loss.

Final Thoughts

Regular professional cleaning is the key to keeping your area rugs looking beautiful and extending their lifespan. By following the recommendations in this guide for when to clean rugs, choosing a qualified service, and understanding the cleaning process, you can ensure your rugs get the deep cleaning they need.

Proper maintenance between professional cleanings, like frequent vacuuming and immediate spot cleaning, will also help maintain your rugs. With some basic care and consistent professional cleaning, your area rugs can stay looking fresh for many years of use. Keep this guide handy and refer back to it when planning your next rug cleaning service.